Johnson pumped to be back for 150th game

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He has been the face of the New Zealand Warriors since bursting onto the scene in 2011 and carrying his team to a grand final appearance as a fresh-faced rookie.

And while he still looks as young as he did seven years ago, Shaun Johnson will run out for his 150th NRL game on Saturday against Manly in Christchurch.

In a decorated career that includes Golden Boot honours in 2014 and breaking the great Stacey Jones' record as the club's all time leading point-scorer, it has taken Johnson "longer than expected" to join the 150-game club.

Several long-term injuries have delayed the milestone but the 27-year-old playmaker claimed he was now close to firing on all cylinders ahead of his side's clash with the Sea Eagles.

Johnson didn't want too much fuss made about his 150th but admitted it would be a proud moment given his struggles with injury. He will become the 12th Warrior to reach 150 first grade appearances.

"It's a cool milestone, something I haven't thought too much about to be honest, but I have some family coming down (to Christchurch) which will make it that much more special," Johnson said.

"I'm just pumped to back. The leg is good, I have got through enough sessions now to feel pretty confident I can take the field.